Sensor and transmission control circuit in adaptive interface package

ABSTRACT

A programmable interface module includes a linear power regulator to control and provide power to interfaced components on an as needed basis. The interface module is implemented in, for example, a threat sensor pack and multiplexed to a plurality of sensor modules. In a first mode, the linear voltage regulator provides a relatively small amount of power which allows a sensor module to output a signal responsive to detecting an environmental condition (e.g., gamma or x-ray radiation, extreme temperatures, etc.). The interface module can switch the linear voltage regulator to a second mode in which the linear voltage regulator ramps up the amount of power provided to a detecting sensor module. The sensor module can then provide a threat level indicative of a concentration or intensity of the environmental condition. If the threat level surpasses a predetermined threshold, the sensor pack can output a threat signal to security server.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/351,112 entitled “Sensor And Transmission Control Circuit In Adaptive Interface Package” filed on Feb. 8, 2006 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/651,398, entitled “Sensor And Transmission Control Circuit In Adaptive Interface Package” filed on Feb. 8, 2005, the entire contents of these are herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an interface for electrical components, and more specifically, an interface for use in a threat sensor that provides power as needed to associated sensors.

BACKGROUND

Public safety is constantly threatened by environmental dangers. For example, a plume of smoke from a dirty bomb can quickly consume a metropolitan area to cause mass harm. In another example, ports receive millions of cargo containers every year, while only a few are inspected for terrorist sabotaging. In response, the Department of Homeland Security has promulgated initiatives for threat monitoring and readiness that are designed to prevent threats and to improve emergency response. Conventionally, a threat is manually observed, and a call is made to 911 which has to be routed to the correct authorities.

One shortcoming of conventional automated threat detection systems is that they are typically hardwired for a specific type of environmental condition. Thus, once the system is manufactured, it cannot be adapted for different environments. Furthermore, current threat detection systems typically have complex deployment requirements or short deployment periods. For example, some threat detection systems are wired to a power source. Other threat detection systems must be constantly serviced to replace batteries.

Accordingly, a need exists for a system and method for a robust threat detection system that is easily deployable and is low-powered to provide a long deployment life.

SUMMARY

The present invention addresses the above needs by providing systems and methods for interfacing electronic components. In one embodiment, a programmable interface module includes a linear power regulator to control and provide power to interfaced components on an as needed basis.

The interface module can be implemented in, for example, a threat sensor pack and multiplexed to a plurality of sensor modules. In a first mode, the linear voltage regulator provides a relatively small amount of power which allows a sensor module to output a signal responsive to detecting an environmental condition (e.g., gamma or x-ray radiation, extreme temperatures, etc.). The interface module can switch the linear voltage regulator to a second mode in which the linear voltage regulator ramps up the amount of power provided to a detecting sensor module. The sensor module can then provide a threat level indicative of a concentration or intensity of the environmental condition. If the threat level surpasses a predetermined threshold, the sensor pack can output a threat signal to security server.

In one embodiment, a configuration module within the interface modules allows adaptation to later-added sensor modules, even if not contemplated during manufacturing. Thus, the sensor pack can be configured for a particular use (e.g., a particular sensitivity), and then configured with instructions and data related to that use.

Advantageously, the interface module can adapt to various types of interfaced components. Furthermore, the interface module has low-power usage for long-term deployments.

The features and advantages described in the specification are not all inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specifications, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The teachings of the present invention can be readily understood by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for sensing environmental threats according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a sensor pack in the system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a logical system for detecting threats according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a logical sensor pack of the logical system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for sensing environmental threats according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method for outputting a threat signal in response to detecting an environmental threat according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Systems and methods related to an interface module for sensors (e.g., in low-power applications) are described. In one embodiment, the interface module is included in a system for detecting threats. Accordingly, the interface module uses a linear voltage regulator to provide power to sensors as needed for detecting ambient inputs. Power regulation to sensors allows long-term deployments over several years. The ambient inputs can include, for example, a smoke plume from a dirty bomb, radiation from hazardous substances, a sudden temperature rise from a fire, and the like. Thus, although the example of a threat detection system is described herein, the invention can be modified for applications in other systems such as a fire detection system, a theft prevention system, an asset tracking system, and the like.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system 100 for detecting environmental threats according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 comprises threat sensors 110 a-f and a satellite server 120. Threat sensors 110 a-f of the present example are deployed around city streets. In other examples, threat sensors 110 a-f can be alternatively deployed on a ship or other form of intermodal transport, a military operations site, and the like.

Threat sensor 110 d is outputting a threat signal to satellite server 120. As described in more detail below, threat sensors 110 a-f can output threat signals responsive to detecting an environmental condition that surpasses a threshold. Satellite server 120 provides communications over a wide deployment range.

FIGS. 2A-B illustrate a threat sensor 110 deployed on a freight container 210 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Threat sensor 110 in the present embodiment is attached to freight container 210 using screws, magnets, glue, or other mechanisms. Threat sensor 110 protects its components for long term deployment with a durable case composed of, for example, plastic or metal. In one embodiment, threat sensor 110 is compact, having dimension of, for example, 6 inches wide, 4 inches deep, and 2 inches tall.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a system 300 which is a logical representation of system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. System 300 comprises sensor packs 310 a-f and a security server 320. Sensor packs 310 a-f are couple in communication with security server 320 over using, for example, low-frequency RF signals.

Sensor packs 110 a-d receive ambient inputs from its surroundings, and output a threat signals to security server 110. Sensor packs 110 a-d can include components as illustrated in FIG. 4. Sensor packs 110 a-d detect environmental dangers from the ambient inputs. In one embodiment, responsive to an ambient input surpassing a threshold level, a corresponding sensor pack 110 generates the threat signal for transmission to security server as described in more detail below. For example, a smoke plume from a dirty bomb can emit particles that are detected by cadium zinc telluride (CZT).

Security server 320 receives the threat signal. Security server 320 can include, for example, a software application executing on a personal computer or server blade. In one embodiment, security server 320 identifies the location and type of threat from the threat signal. Security server 320 can provide a user interface (i.e., directly or remotely through a client) which visually identifies the alerting sensor pack over a graphical map. For example, a local fire station that is proximate the alerting sensor pack can be alarmed for a response. The fire station can equip fire trucks and operators with equipment used to deal with particular threads identified by alerting sensor packs (e.g., a bomb defusing kit).

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of sensor pack 310 of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Sensor pack 310 comprises sensor modules 412-415, interface module 420, communication module 430, and power module 440.

Sensor modules receive the environmental (or ambient) conditions, and generate level signals. Sensor modules 412-415 include a radiation sensor module 412, a temperature sensor module 413, and future sensor modules 414, 415. Future sensor modules 414, 415 are later-developed sensor modules 412-415 that can be added to sensor pack 310 after manufacture. Sensor modules 412-415 can include elements to sense environmental conditions with little or no power. For example, radiation sensor module 412 can include CZT and temperature sensor module 213 can include mercury. In a first mode, sensor modules 412-415 are capable of outputting a relatively small electrical signal in response to detecting an associated environmental condition. Each of sensor modules 412-415 are sensitive at least one environmental condition. For example, radiation sensor module 412 can detect output from a dirty bomb, radiation sensor module 412 can detect small amounts of gamma, and temperature sensor module 413 can detect large changes in temperature. In a second mode, a detecting sensor is receives power. In turn, the detecting sensor outputs the level signals having an amplitude indicative of a concentration or intensity of the environmental condition.

Interface module 420 receives the level signals, and outputs a threshold signal. Interface module 420 includes a configuration module 422, a linear voltage regulator 424, and a processor 426. Interface module 420 can be, for example, an integrated semiconductor circuit (e.g., formed from silicon oxide or gallium arsenide). Configuration module 422 can be a programmable memory such as EEPROM (e.g., having a capacity of 512 k) or some other type of memory element. Configuration module 422 can store instructions and data related to operating sensor modules 412-415. For example, configuration module 422 stores threat levels and other communication protocols. Configuration 422 can be reconfigured with updated information or new information about a new type of sensor module (e.g., future sensor module 414, 415) by flashing the memory. Processor module 426 can be a controller that executes instructions against conditions received from inputs.

Linear voltage regulator 424 can step down voltage from power module 440 for output too sensor modules 414-415. In a first mode, linear voltage regulator 424 provides a relatively small electrical signal, such as 6 micro amps while sleeping and 500 milliamps during a 1.3 second transmit. In one embodiment, processor 426 compares a received level signal to predetermined thresholds. Responsive to detecting a level signal above a wake threshold, linear voltage regulator provides power to the associated sensor module. The sensor modules thus have enough power to produce the level signal higher amplitudes as discussed above. Responsive to detecting a level signal above a threat threshold, interface module generates the threshold signal. Additionally, in one embodiment, linear voltage regulator also provides power to communication module.

Communication module 430 receives the threshold signal, and outputs a threat signal. Communication module 430 includes components such as transceivers (e.g., RF transceivers), encoders, antennae, and the like. Communication module 430 can be, for example, a plug-in module, or a semiconductor chip that is integrated onto the same PCB as, for example, interface module 420. In one embodiment, communication module 430 uses a handshaking protocol to initiate communication with security server 320 (e.g., to present authentication credentials). Communication module 430 provides the threat signal to indicate that a stimuli level has surpassed the predetermined threshold. Additional information can include location information, a unique identifier, stimuli type, stimuli level, and the like. In some embodiments, communication module 430 includes a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) module to determine a location of sensor pack. For example, when sensor pack is coupled to a moving platform such as ship cargo or train freight, its location is constantly changing.

Power module 440 outputs electrical power to various components such as interface module. Power module 440 can comprise, for example, a DC battery, a voltage source (e.g., to provide 3.6V), a current source, and the like. In one embodiment, power module 440 provides the raw power used by linear voltage regulator 324 to activate sensor modules 412-415.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method 500 for according to one embodiment of the present invention. Method 500 can be implemented using, for example, the components of system 300 discussed above.

A coverage area is modeled and analyzed 510 by a software application. For example, a grid of city streets can be input to the application which determines an approximate area or density for which sensor packs (e.g., sensor packs 310 a-f) should be placed for optimal threat coverage.

The sensor packs are deployed around the coverage area 520. Various mechanisms can be used to securely attach the sensor packs to stable bases. For example, the sensor packs can be attached to buildings, light poles, and other municipal structures.

In response to detecting an environmental threat, a sensor pack outputs a threat signal 530, as discussed below in greater detail in association with FIG. 6. For example, in response to a dirty bomb detonation, a radiation sensor module (e.g., radiation sensor module 412) can detect small amounts of gamma radiation.

A threat response center associated with the alerting sensor pack is notified 540. The threat signal is passed to a security server (e.g., security server 320) through a communication medium such as a satellite. In some embodiments, additional verification can be required before contacting the threat response center. For example, a second threat signal from a separate sensor pack can be used for verification. At the threat response center, the personnel can be alerted using, for example, a telephone call, a bell, and the like. Additionally, a location of the threat can be presented with a graphical user interface showing a grid of city streets.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating additional details for outputting 530 the threat signal responsive to detecting the environmental threat according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The sensor packs remain in a first mode during normal, sleep, operations. As such, the sensor packs use a low amount of power and can have a batter life of multiple years. Once an environmental condition above a wake threshold is detected 610, the sensor pack switches to a second mode. In the second mode, a linear voltage regulator (e.g., linear voltage regulator 424) ramps up the power provided to an alerting sensor pack. In turn, the alerting sensor pack, is able to output a level signal indicative of the intensity of the environmental condition. The interface module monitors the threat level, and if a threat threshold is surpassed 630, a threat signal is output 640.

The order in which the steps of the methods of the present invention are performed is purely illustrative in nature. The steps can be performed in any order or in parallel, unless otherwise indicated by the present disclosure. The methods of the present invention may be performed in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof operating on a single computer or multiple computers of any type. Software embodying the present invention may comprise computer instructions in any form (e.g., source code, object code, interpreted code, etc.) stored in any computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a ROM, a RAM, a magnetic media, a compact disc, a DVD, etc.). Such software may also be in the form of an electrical data signal embodied in a carrier wave propagating on a conductive medium or in the form of light pulses that propagate through an optical fiber.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from this invention in its broader aspect and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications, as fall within the true spirit of this invention.

In the above description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the invention.

Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Some portions of the detailed description are presented in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bits within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like.

It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as “processing” or “computing” or “calculating” or “determining” or “displaying” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

The present invention also relates to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus can be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it can comprise a general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer program can be stored in a computer readable storage medium, such as, but is not limited to, any type of disk including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, and magnetic-optical disks, read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions, and each coupled to a computer system bus.

The algorithms and modules presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems can be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatuses to perform the method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will appear from the description below. In addition, the present invention is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages can be used to implement the teachings of the invention as described herein. Furthermore, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, the modules, features, attributes, methodologies, and other aspects of the invention can be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or any combination of the three. Of course, wherever a component of the present invention is implemented as software, the component can be implemented as a standalone program, as part of a larger program, as a plurality of separate programs, as a statically or dynamically linked library, as a kernel loadable module, as a device driver, and/or in every and any other way known now or in the future to those of skill in the art of computer programming. Additionally, the present invention is in no way limited to implementation in any specific operating system or environment.

It will be understood by those skilled in the relevant art that the above-described implementations are merely exemplary, and many changes can be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications that come within the true spirit and scope of this invention. 

1. An integrated circuit for coupling a sensor to a transceiver, integrated circuit comprising an interface module including inputs and outputs for coupling to a plurality of types of low-power modules and including a linear voltage regulator, the linear voltage regulator in a first mode capable of outputting minimal electrical power to the low-power modules, the linear voltage regulator in a second mode capable of ramping up electrical power to a low-power module in order to receive a signal from the sensor module, wherein the interface module switches from the first to the second mode responsive to receiving a signal.
 2. A method in a sensor pack for long term deployment to detect environmental threats: detecting at least two types of environmental threats; in a first mode, detecting the presence of environmental threats using minimal electrical power; switching from a first mode to a second mode responsive to detecting a threat, including increasing electric power; in the second mode, detecting a threat level; and outputting a threat signal responsive to the threat level surpassing a threshold associated with the sensor. 